Flute Lessons in West Mclean, VA

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

I believe learning an instrument is a very personalized process, and tailor the materials I use to the skill level and personal goals of each student. For brand new beginners, I typically start with the first Suzuki Flute book, Trevor Wye Beginning book for the Flute, and depending on the individual may begin with some of my own exercises that I write out for the student. For more intermediate to advanced students, I typically like to work out of the Selected Studies and Advanced Rubank books, as some of the more commonly asked audition excerpts for County/State Band typically come from these books. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I love watching students learn and helping them to progress. There is nothing more satisfying than sharing my love for playing music with students! I set realistic goals for each student depending on their starting point. Assessing where each student is with their playing is the most important aspect of teaching. Too hard and the student will get discouraged. Too easy and they will be bored. I encourage them to select at least one piece of music that they would enjoy learning to keep their interest. Read More

Instruments: Flute

I typically start beginners with the Rubank method, as it contains a good balance of fundamentals, technical exercises, and fun, tuneful melodies. Particularly when working with children, I supplement this with my own devices, including flash cards and various learning games. I gradually incorporate solo material as appropriate. While I personally am primarily a classical musician, I make a point of including any style that is of special interest to the student in order to make music as enjoyable and relatable as possible. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods are unique to each student and allow for every student to develop as a complete musician and begin making music as soon as possible. I am committed to helping develop all around musicians who are both proficient in the technical aspects of their individual instruments as well as knowledgeable about the theoretical aspects of creating music. I often use simple songs that the student knows as the catalyst to developing the students understanding of basic music concepts and ideas. Read More

Instruments: Flute Piccolo

Lessons are challenging yet fun. As students improve their skills, I find they usually enjoy playing even more than when they started. I try to find ways to make scales and tone exercises more interesting so students are more likely to incorporate these things into their daily practice. It is also important to choose repertoire that is the right level of difficulty so students are not bored or frustrated. When a student is struggling with a new concept or a difficult technical challenge, I can offer them many different ways to identify and then practice the issue. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet

My methods depend entirely on where the student is beginning. If the student does not play in a school setting, I will usually start with Essential Elements. If they are playing in band, I will use whatever their teacher starts with in band and progress from there. If the student has been playing for a while and no longer can use Essential Elements, I will see what music they are interested in. Read More

Instruments: Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bassoon

Although it is my responsibility to teach fundamentals of playing the instrument and reading music correctly, I spend as much time as I can on not becoming enslaved to the printed page. In other words, once a student begins to play at a higher level, I introduce how to express oneself and the music in an aesthetically satisfying manner. Breaking down the barriers caused by musical notation and enabling an individual to express themselves musically and with proper phrasing and sensitivity is my primary goal. Read More